On Saturday 11 October, 24 taxis were safety checked by North Yorkshire’s Road Safety Team and the DVSA, with many found to be unsatisfactory.

The targeted checks were part of preparations for the upcoming ‘Dark Nights’ operation, focusing on keeping the roads safe in the darker months and winter weather.

North Yorkshire officers found vehicles with faulty number plate lights, incorrect number plates and tyre defects, among offences such as using a vehicle in a dangerous condition and using an incorrectly registered vehicle.

Traffic Constable Matthew Harvey, Road Safety Officer, said: ”This operation is not a one-off. Officers will continue to ensure that vehicles travelling in North Yorkshire are roadworthy, especially taxis.

”Public safety is our priority, and we’re committed to making sure that those who rely on taxis can do so with confidence.”

Ahead of darker evenings and poor weather, the road safety team reminds all drivers, especially those in passenger vehicles, to ensure their vehicles meet legal and maintenance standards.